2021 PDA ANNUAL AWARD WINNERS
Dr . R . Donald Hoffman is the recipient of the 2021 Pennsylvania Dental Association Recognition Award . Dr . Hoffman has served organized dentistry and higher education since 1972 . He began his service at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine as a part-time instructor and progressed to the role of associate dean . Throughout his academic career , Dr . Hoffman inspired students and residents to be the best clinicians they could be .
His other leadership positions included service in the House of Delegates on the state and national level ; treasurer and president of the Pennsylvania Dental Association , as well as president of the East Suburban Branch ; the Dental Society of Western Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Academy of General Dentistry .
PDA is proud to recognize Dr . Hoffman ’ s nearly 50 years of service to the dental profession in support of the next generation of dental leaders . His professionalism and dedication to the dental profession have earned him the 2021 PDA Recognition Award .
PDA RECOGNITION AWARD
R . DONALD HOFFMAN , DMD , PHD
Dr . Hoffman ’ s remarks : I am honored to have been nominated by Dean Bernard Costello and to be recognized by the officers and members of the Pennsylvania Dental Association for PDA ’ s 2021 Recognition Award for my dedication to the profession and my years as a dental educator .
During the 45 years that I was involved in dental education , I had to opportunity to participate in the training of a large percentage of the dentists practicing in Pennsylvania . Those 45 years gave me the opportunity to develop lifelong friendships with numerous individuals and to realize the importance of mentorship and giving back . Over the years I tried to instill in my students what they need to be good clinicians so that they can be successful , and in turn be able to give back to their communities . It is a powerful to watch someone grow and mature and know that you have made a difference in their lives .
Being recognized by one ’ s colleagues with this special award is something quite gratifying . Thank you , the Annual Awards Committee , and the members of the PDA .
22 JULY / AUGUST 2021 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL